Stoke sign French defender Bocat

Eric Bocat (left) made 59 league and cup appearances in his two seasons in Belgium with Sint-Truiden

Stoke City have made their third summer signing by bringing in defender Eric Bocat from Belgian top-flight club Sint-Truiden for an undisclosed fee on a four-year contract.

The 24-year-old Frenchman, who began his career at Lille, follows the arrival of Norwich City defender Ben Gibson and Rotherham United goalkeeper Viktor Johansson.

"He is a versatile, athletic, and exciting player whose attributes can help him thrive in the Championship and beyond," said Stoke sporting director Jon Walters.

“Eric’s ability to adapt to different positions on the field will be a tremendous asset."

Bocat said: "This is a big move in my life and my career. When I talked with the sporting director and head coach [Steven Schumacher], they explained how they like my profile for a left-back.

“I am offensive, quick and like to dribble. However, I am a left-back firstly and my defensive attributes are very important. It’s an area of my game I have improved a lot during the last couple of years in Belgium."